Backdrop preview The Store backdrop
The Store
8.0

The Store (2023)

Apr 14, 2023 2h 23m Animation Drama

Set in a near-future Sweden, where jobs are scarce, margins are tight and corporate profit trumps all, this timely hybrid film reveals a frighteningly all-too-recognisable economic dystopia. Sköld highlights the effects of the ruthless system on families, friendships and communities. All but a hair’s breadth away from homelessness, zero-hours contract workers squabble over shifts at the discount supermarket while store manager Eleni, a new mother forced to return to work too soon, frantically pumps breast milk in the staff toilets. Poignant and compellingly performed, the film’s vignettes are punctuated with animated sequences, inventively exposing the dehumanising and absurdly wasteful effects of capitalism. And yet, beyond the store, an ever-growing ‘underclass’ offers a sense of hope through sustainability and true community.

Watch Trailer
Directed by Ami-Ro Sköld

Cast

View All
Eliza Sica
View Profile
Eliza Sica

as

Daysury Valencia
View Profile
Daysury Valencia

as

View Profile
Lana Chahto

as

Isabelle Grill
View Profile
Isabelle Grill

as

Victor Iván
View Profile
Victor Iván

as

Kristina Brändén Whitaker
View Profile
Kristina Brändén Whitaker

as

Arbi Alviati
View Profile
Arbi Alviati

as

View Profile
Fredrik Evers

as

Eleftheria Gerofoka
View Profile
Eleftheria Gerofoka

as

View Profile
Linda Hellström

as

View Profile
Linda Faith

as

View Profile
Joshua Nicolas Sjöö

as

View Profile
Alisa Sofia Paulsen

as

View Profile
Marcus Standoft

as

View Profile
Sabrin Jaja

as

Crew

Director
  • Ami-Ro Sköld
Writer
  • Ami-Ro Sköld
Producer
  • Lovisa Charlier

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to review this movie!
Sign in to leave a review.

Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, The Store examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Ami-Ro Sköld brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2023, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of The Store took approximately 4 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 143 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 187 minutes long.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The musical score contains over 48 unique compositions.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.

Historical Context

  • In 2023, when this film is released:
  • The COVID-19 pandemic transformed global health, economics, and social interaction.
  • Streaming platforms had largely replaced traditional cinema and television models.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: April 14, 2023
  • Runtime: 2h 23m

Similar Movies